At the top of most people's Bucket List is a cruise through the Panama Canal - one of the seven wonders of the modern world. Completed in 1914, this magnificent feat of engineering allows ships to pass between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans without having to go all the way around South America. The canal is over 50 miles long and filled with locks that raise and lower ships to different levels. As the canal's waters flow between two rainforests, you can expect to see a lot of wildlife and a rich biodiversity of plants. Visit the many beautiful beaches in Panama and before you leave, be sure to try some of the local food - ceviche is a Panama speciality!
Panama Canal Cruise Port Highlights
Colón
Colón is the gateway to the Panama Canal, and there are many places cruisers can visit when in port. The Colón 2000 (also known in Spanish as Colón Dos Mil) has many great restaurants and shops, and you can even shop duty-free at your leisure. Just outside Colón and along the Pacific Coast are some amazing rock formations at Land's End that are definitely worth checking out. These rocks have been shaped by the elements over millennia and make for a really cool sight. If you're more of a history buff, Colón is the place for you. The city has a rich colonial history that can be explored in the many museums and monuments throughout the town.
Panama City
Just an hour south of Panama City is Playa Blanca, the perfect spot for you to dip into the crystal clear waters or sunbathe on the beachfront lounge chairs. If you feel hungry, numerous seaside restaurants serve delicious Panama cuisine and fresh seafood. Another great way to spend time in Panama City is to explore the old town. Casco Viejo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the name of Panama's historic district full of 17th to 20th-century colonial buildings, churches, and plazas. In the Casco Viejo district, expect to see Spanish colonial, French republican and Caribbean styles of architecture.